An aging former child star, Baby Jane Hudson (played by Davis), hates the fact that not only did her sister, Blanche Hudson (played by Crawford), become more famous than her when they grew up but now she has to care for the disabled Blanche, whom she cheats and abuses. It also stars Victor Buono.
Themes include family secrets and Jane's realization that she has gone from being cute and beloved to being old and unloved.
The movie was adapted by Lukas Heller from the novel by Henry Farrell. It was directed by Robert Aldrich.
It won the Academy Award for Best Costume Design, Black-and-White. It was nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Victor Buono), Best Actress in a Leading Role (Bette Davis), Best Cinematography, Black-and-White and Best Sound.
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? was remade for television in 1991 starring Vanessa Redgrave and Lynn Redgrave. It was adapted by Brian Taggert and directed by David Greene.